Maple Leaf listeria contamination source

Maple Leaf Foods have released an update regarding its
investigation into the likely cause of a Listeria monocytogenes contamination at
its plant in Toronto, Ontario.

After careful study of the records, the physical plant and product test
results received from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), internal and
external experts have concluded that the most likely source was a possible
collection point for bacteria located deep inside the mechanical operations of
two slicing machines on lines 8 and 9.

Rigorous
sanitisationRigorous sanitisation of this equipment was completed
on a daily basis in accordance with or exceeding the equipment manufacturer's
recommendations. However, upon full disassembly, areas were found where bacteria
may accumulate deep inside the slicing machines and avoid the sanitisation
process. There were also other environmental factors, not on product contact
surfaces, that may have contributed to the contamination.

"We deeply
regret this incident and the impact it has had on people's lives," said Michael
McCain, President and CEO. "We have the highest food safety standards and we
have worked around the clock and left no stone unturned to identify the root
cause and eliminate the source of this contamination. Throughout this crisis we
have done whatever it takes to place our consumers' interests and public health
first. It's now up to us to earn back your confidence."

Full
cooperation
"We are fully co-operating with the CFIA as they
continue their investigation and conduct due diligence and verification. The
plant will not re-open and no products will be released until the CFIA and Maple
Leaf are confident in the effectiveness of the enhanced food safety protocols in
place," continued Mr. McCain.